Right, he was so lucky. I usually get burned when I just throw parts at a problem...

Although, I would tap the TPS with a wrench and it would make the idle turn down. I guess he thought that was a conclusive test and went ahead and bought a TPS.......... it might be better to be luckey than good.

These can have plain sticky/frayed throttle cables. If you can manually move it back toward regular idle it needs help - either lubed or replacement if that's what you find. Chance that the cable for trans is part of trouble - go easy not to break the plastic holder(s) as they are going to be hard to find new now if you dig into that or remove them.

Also make sure vacuum hose to PCV (down back) is all right and not leaking.

If you can see alignment problem it's way off or seriously some FE parts worn!